Cruising Ducks are typically small, rubber duckies that passengers hide around the cruise ship for others to find. These cheerful little creatures often come with a tag that includes a friendly note, a social media hashtag, or a note encouraging the finder to share their discovery online. The goal? Well, there isn’t one… They’re mainly for a bit of fun.
I actually hit a little blue Scottish duck on my Oasis of the Seas cruise, but I didn’t see any one share it!
The Origins of the Tradition
The “cruising ducks” tradition began in March 2018 when 11-year-old Abby Davis from Texas brought 50 rubber ducks aboard the Carnival Breeze during a spring break cruise departing from Galveston. She hid several ducks each day around the ship, attaching notes encouraging finders to either keep or re-hide them. This simple act of kindness quickly resonated with fellow passengers and sparked a widespread trend.
You can find out more about them via the Cruising Ducks website.
Join the Facebook group
There’s an official Facebook group where you can connect with other duck collectors / sharers – there’s actually over 200,000 members of the group! Plus, if you’ve hidden or found any ducks on your cruise, you can post about it there too!
How to Join the Fun
Joining the cruising duck craze is easy and fun! Here’s how you can participate:
- Bring Your Own Ducks: Purchase a few rubber ducks before your cruise. Many enthusiasts decorate their ducks with paint, stickers, or outfits to make them stand out.
- Hide and Seek: While onboard, find creative spots to hide your ducks – popular locations include poolside, in lounges, or near elevators. Just make sure they’re safe from potential damage!
- Tag and Share: Attach a note or tag to each duck, encouraging finders to take a picture and share it on social media using specific hashtags like #CruisingDucks or tagging the Facebook group. This creates a sense of camaraderie as more people join in the fun. Maybe if you’re a content creation, do a little cheeky self promotion.
- Follow the Journey: Keep an eye on social media for posts from those who find your ducks. It’s a joy to see where they end up and the smiles they bring to others!
The Benefits of Cruising Ducks
Beyond just a fun activity, cruising ducks foster a sense of community among cruisers. They encourage interaction between passengers who may not have otherwise met. The thrill of finding a hidden duck can spark conversations and friendships, making your cruise experience even more memorable.
Additionally, cruising ducks often serve as a reminder to embrace spontaneity and joy during your travels. They’re a playful way to lighten the mood and bring smiles to those around you.
Join the Quack-tastic Fun!
Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or planning your first cruise, consider joining the charming tradition of cruising ducks. It’s an easy and enjoyable way to make your cruise experience more engaging and connect with fellow travellers.
So, pack your rubber ducks, get creative, and prepare for an adventure filled with unexpected surprises and delightful encounters. Happy cruising!
